Some people find it easy to make small talk with strangers, while others cringe at the mere thought of it.

Meeting someone for the first time can seem daunting and the idea of keeping a conversation flowing with someone you don’t know all that well somewhat of a challenge. However, if you’re serious about meeting someone there really is no getting away from it.

So to help you get things off to a great start we’ve put together a few ideas to make sure you’re never stuck for something to say!

Break the ice: Talk about your day, talk about the weather, talk about your journey to meet your date. These topics may seem rather mundane but this type of simple chit chat is a great starting point as it’s easy and it gives you a great opportunity to suss out those all-important first impressions.

What’s in the News: When in doubt, turn to the news for conversation. What’s happening in the world, sport, community, or politics? Everyone has their own opinions on current affairs so it’s a great starting point and a great stepping stone to lead conversation elsewhere.

Common ground: Do you have friends in common, do you work in the same industry, or do you both share a love of music. Common ground is the best way to build up a bond with a date and a great way to get conversation flowing.

What’s going on around you: If you ever become stuck for conversation why not talk about your surroundings. A little people watching will provide a great topic of conversation as you can both get involved. Who’s in the bar, what are other people doing around you, what other places have you been to in the area?

Talk about yourself: No one knows you better than yourself, so what better subject to talk about. Tell your date about your job, your ambitions, your family, your interests and hobbies. These topics are great as it gives your date a snapshot of you as a person and also gives you the chance to show them what’s great about you. Just make sure you’re not the one doing all the talking. First dates are as much about talking as they are about listening to the other person.

Ask questions: Following on from the previous point, be sure to ask questions to get to know your date. Don’t fear an awkward silence so much that you end up over compensating and talking too much. Ask you date what their favourite food is, or what music they’re into, or where the last place they travelled to was? Asking questions will give your date time to talk, give you a break to listen, and also show that you are interested in getting to know them.

Sounds so easy doesn’t it? Use these handy tips the next time you go on a first date and we’re sure you’ll be saying goodbye to those awkward silences.